Understanding treatment and recovery experiences of patients with a substance use disorder: a qualitative study

Background: There is increasing recognition that incorporating patient perspectives into substance use disorder (SUD) treatment planning and evaluation is essential for tailoring care to individual goals, enhancing the overall quality of care, and supporting recovery. This qualitative study explores how individuals starting SUD treatment describe recovery and view the role of treatment services in supporting recovery. Methods: We conducted 21 in-depth interviews with 16 participants from residential and five from outpatient SUD settings. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Four themes were identified, reflecting participants’ views on SUD treatment and recovery: (1) participants reported a need to feel connected, valued and respected; (2) they wanted to gain a better understanding of their substance use and how to manage it; (3) finding stability in life was considered part of treatment and recovery; and (4) participants wanted to stay in control of the content of their treatment and care pathway. Conclusions: Patients’ individual goals and needs may be overlooked when SUD services prioritize their own, often narrow, conceptions of treatment and recovery. Patient-centered, recovery-oriented treatment should support individualized and continuous care, integrated with recovery support services.